Bavaria has introduced a new initiative at the Federal Council aimed at securing long-distance transport services, ensuring that coverage extends beyond major cities. Bavarian Transport Minister Christian Bernreiter (CSU) announced this on Thursday.
The move comes in response to a recent decision by the Federal Network Agency, which seeks to simplify access to high-demand routes for new transport providers. The Bavarian initiative is scheduled to be presented to the Federal Council following the summer recess.
Speaking on the matter, Bernreiter emphasized that Bavaria is taking a proactive stance. He stated that, ideally in collaboration with many other states, they intend to make clear that the current developments and changes are insufficiently thought out and require much broader adjustments. The specific decision issued by the Federal Network Agency on July 17 stipulates that DB Infrago must allocate minimum quotas of 25 to 40 percent to competitors on high-demand routes.
Bernreiter strongly demanded that long-distance transport must connect not only large metropolises but also regional centers, citing examples such as Bamberg or Ingolstadt. He criticized the current situation, stating that new operators are primarily looking to serve financially lucrative routes and offer direct connections, especially between Germany’s million-plus cities. He rejected this approach, calling it “picking the raisins.” Furthermore, the minister demanded better protection for rail passenger services, as well as the implementation of through-ticketing between various operators and between long-distance and local services.
